Nathaniel Goldman '10: Jewish Student Union

Within their first semester at Oglethorpe, Nathaniel Goldman ’10 and Chloe Edwards ’10 reactivated the Jewish Student Union (JSU).

“We thought it would be a great opportunity for the Jews on campus to come together, to see each other, and to interact with the Oglethorpe community as a whole,” said Nathaniel. “Everyone in the Atlanta Jewish community is excited that we’re starting back up and showing a presence. They’ve all been really helpful.”

The group currently has 14 student members, with support from faculty and staff as well. Twenty people joined together for a Shabbat (Sabbath) Dinner in December at the home of Dr. Bonnie Kessler, Oglethorpe’s Director of Counseling Services and JSU’s advisor. The dinner, attended by President Schall, students, faculty and staff, included challah (bread), matzah ball soup and latkes (potato pancakes).

“Having faculty and staff at the dinner was a great experience,” Nathaniel said. “We were all equals for the night. There was a real sense of community.” The dinner was followed about two weeks later with a Chanukah Party.

Nathaniel, who graduated high school with a class of 36, knows community. In his college search, he was accepted at Emory, University of Georgia and a host of universities outside of Georgia, but ultimately wanted a smaller school.

“Oglethorpe was the right choice,” he said. “I feel like this is a good fit.  I like having small classes and close relationships with professors. They’ve been very accommodating.” In spite of his dyslexia, Nathaniel is an honors student and recently won the Marion Huber Learning through Listening Award, a National Academic Essay Award.

As he progresses toward a major in accounting or economics, or a possible double-major, Nathaniel also looks forward to growing the Jewish Student Union. The organization is already planning events for the spring semester, including a reading by a prominent Jewish author.